As a Colerain Township bus accident attorney, we know that bus accidents have the potential to be complex. Your bus may be in an accident, a slip and fall on the bus could cause injury or as a pedestrian, you may have been involved in an accident with a bus.
MetroNow operates many of the buses in Colerain, but many other operators are also in town.
If you’re injured on the bus or due to an accident that involves a bus, you may be able to seek damages for:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
Your case may take time to settle, and due to the complexities of a bus accident, you want to begin taking action immediately to hold negligent parties liable for your injuries. You have two years under Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10 to seek damages.
Contact us immediately if you’ve been in a bus accident.
How Many Bus Accidents Occur in Hamilton County?
Hamilton County’s 2023 traffic crashes include:
- 72 fatal accidents
- 1,728 commercial-related accidents, including bus accidents
- 1,175 serious injuries
- 3,122 minor injuries
For a free legal consultation, call 513-894-3333
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents, like any motor vehicle accident, can occur for numerous reasons, including but not limited to:
- Negligence of the bus company. Failing to maintain buses, lack of record-keeping and failing to meet regulations can all lead to accidents
- Driver negligence or reckless driving, such as speeding or turning into traffic
- Road conditions at the time of the accident, such as snow or rainy weather
- Distracted driving, such as the bus driver being on the phone at the time of the accident
- Medical emergencies that cause the driver to lose control of the bus
- Blind spots
Your steps following an accident can significantly impact the ease and speed of seeking compensation. By hiring an injury lawyer immediately after the accident, you can receive guidance on handling your case, making the process of obtaining compensation smoother and faster.
Colerain Township Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 513-894-3333
What to Do After a Bus Accident
If you’re involved in a bus accident, taking swift action can help you protect your rights and start building the foundation for your personal injury claim.
Here’s what to do following a bus accident:
- Call 911 and make sure everyone is in a safe location. Your first priority should be the health and well-being of yourself and others. First responders will treat injuries, and the police will complete an accident report.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries appear to be minor, get medical assistance as soon as possible.
- Document the scene (if possible). Photos and videos of the accident scene can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
- Collect witness information and jot down any and all details of the accident that you can remember.
Next, consult with a bus accident attorney for a case evaluation and to take the next steps in pursuing a claim.
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Determining Fault in Ohio Bus Accidents
One of the most complicated aspects of a bus accident claim is determining fault. Which party or parties will be liable for damages?
Multiple parties may be involved, and each may be partially negligent for the incident. These parties can include:
- The bus driver. When bus drivers fail to meet their expected standard of care (for example, running a red light), they can be held liable for damages.
- The manufacturer of the bus or a component of the vehicle may be held liable if the vehicle or component was defective and caused the accident.
- Other drivers. If other motorists fail to exercise a reasonable degree of care while operating their vehicles, they may be liable for damages.
Municipal entities such as public transit systems receive some degree of sovereign immunity, but the law does outline circumstances in which they may be held liable for damages.
When government entities are involved, accident claims become increasingly more complex. It’s essential to consult with a Colerain Township bus accident attorney who understands the nuances of these types of claims.
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What Is My Case Worth?
One of the first questions that clients often ask is: How much is my case worth?
To answer this question, we first need to know all of the facts surrounding the accident.
The value of your claim will depend on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The cost of medical care
- Lost wages and whether your earning capacity has been impacted
- Pain and suffering
Ohio is a comparative negligence state, which means that the damages that you can recover will be reduced by your own percentage of negligence.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, your own percentage of liability can vary and may impact the value of your claim.
How to Choose the Right Bus Accident Lawyer for My Case
Bus accidents can cause serious injuries, and the claims process can be complicated. It is crucial to have a lawyer on your side who will fight zealously for the compensation you’re entitled to and deserve.
How do you find the right lawyer for your case? Here are a few important questions to consider:
- Do they have experience handling bus accident cases?
- Will they be able to give your case the attention it deserves?
- Are they responsive? Will they be available to answer your questions?
- Do they have a track record of getting results?
- Do they have a positive reputation?
An attorney with the right qualifications will know how to deal with insurance companies and advocate on your behalf to obtain a fair settlement.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help
At Kruger & Hodges, we know how difficult it can be to find a lawyer you trust. Our attorneys have defended corporations and government entities in the past, which can give us insight into some of their tactics and how to combat them.
Our attorneys are accessible, compassionate and committed to helping clients achieve the best possible outcomes in their cases.
Contact us for a free case evaluation and to speak with a Colerain Township bus accident attorney.
Call or text 513-894-3333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form